Alexandra Ribera

"make no mistake: alexandra ribera will seduce you. with her captivating, husky, mercurial voice, and her dramatic, sensual lyrics.... edith piaf meets tom waits meets some mysterious, strong woman who rides off with your trembling heart into the sunset"
- evalyn parry
Originally trained on viola and in choral music, Alexandra Ribera abandoned her classical roots and began penning original works for voice and guitar at age 15. She released her first independent album, Shaming Exhibition, at age 17 and began playing local venues in Toronto (such as Big Bop, Graffiti’s, Rancho Relaxo, Oasis, Free Times Cafe, Holy Joe's, the Cadillac Lounge) and was featured on CKLN - York University Radio. She is also a member of the elite Young Playwrite's Unit at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, Toronto. After a brief hiatus, Alexandra Ribera has returned to the stage performing at venues throughout Toronto. Ribera will be returning to the studio to record her second album in 2006.

Alexandra Ribera is a stunning performer challenging the status quo of folk/rock singer-songwriters. Perhaps it's the intimate atmosphere created as she unfolds a narrative tracing the contradictions of her cultural and spiritual roots. Her disarming humour facilitates seamless tempo changes from soulful ballads to edgy rock tunes to world/jazz standards that keeps her audience on their toes. A provocative poise delivers unrepentant lyrics many refer to as 'Cohen-esque'. Other-worldly vocals often convey a yearning that takes you off guard, evoking memories she convinces you are your own. Redolent with a touch of cabaret, she regales her audiences with stories of love unravelled and decorates them with distinctive arrangements employing viola, saw, piano, guitar and a toy accordian.